Kia Forum

Los Angeles, US

Kia Forum
Kia Forum
Location
Los Angeles, US
Category
national parks nature reserves
Coordinates
33.95821, -118.342
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The Kia Forum, located in Inglewood, California, stands as a seminal multi-purpose indoor arena with a rich history in sports and entertainment. Originally opened in 1967, it quickly became an iconic landmark within the Greater Los Angeles area, renowned for its distinctive circular design and lack of internal support pillars, offering unobstructed views for all attendees. Today, the Kia Forum primarily operates as a premier concert venue, attracting world-class musical acts and live performances, making it a key destination for those seeking vibrant entertainment. Visitors exploring places to visit in Los Angeles or looking for what to do in Inglewood will find the Forum a hub of activity, offering a diverse calendar of events throughout the year. Its architectural significance and enduring legacy as a host to legendary moments in both sports and music underscore its importance, solidifying its status as a vital cultural institution in Southern California.

General information

The Kia Forum, located in Inglewood, California, stands as a seminal multi-purpose indoor arena with a rich history in sports and entertainment. Originally opened in 1967, it quickly became an iconic landmark within the Greater Los Angeles area, renowned for its distinctive circular design and lack of internal support pillars, offering unobstructed views for all attendees. Today, the Kia Forum primarily operates as a premier concert venue, attracting world-class musical acts and live performances, making it a key destination for those seeking vibrant entertainment. Visitors exploring places to visit in Los Angeles or looking for what to do in Inglewood will find the Forum a hub of activity, offering a diverse calendar of events throughout the year. Its architectural significance and enduring legacy as a host to legendary moments in both sports and music underscore its importance, solidifying its status as a vital cultural institution in Southern California.

Did you know

  • The Forum was designed by architect Charles Luckman, known for his work on Madison Square Garden.
  • It was famously dubbed 'The Fabulous Forum' by its original owner, Jack Kent Cooke.
  • The arena's distinctive circular design was inspired by the Roman Colosseum.
  • For decades, the Forum was the exclusive home of the Los Angeles Lakers (NBA) and the Los Angeles Kings (NHL).

History

Constructed by Jack Kent Cooke and designed by architect Charles Luckman, the Forum officially opened on December 30, 1967. It was initially conceived as the home for Cooke's Los Angeles Lakers basketball team and Los Angeles Kings hockey team. For over three decades, it served as a primary venue for major sports and entertainment events in Southern California, hosting numerous NBA championships, NHL Stanley Cup Finals, and concerts by legendary artists. Following the departure of the Lakers and Kings to the Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena) in 1999, the Forum's future became uncertain. However, it underwent a significant revitalization under the ownership of the Madison Square Garden Company, reopening in 2014 as a state-of-the-art concert venue, later acquiring its current naming rights as the Kia Forum.

Cultural significance

The Kia Forum holds immense cultural significance, particularly within the realms of sports and music. During its tenure as the home of the Los Angeles Lakers, it became synonymous with the 'Showtime' era of the 1980s, a period of unparalleled success and celebrity that defined Los Angeles basketball. Similarly, it hosted early eras of the Los Angeles Kings. Beyond sports, the Forum has been a pivotal stage for countless iconic musical performances, cementing its place in rock and pop history. Its acoustics and intimate design, even for a large arena, have contributed to memorable concert experiences, making it a cherished venue for both artists and audiences. Its continued operation as a premier entertainment destination reinforces its enduring legacy as a cultural touchstone in Los Angeles.

Geography and landscape

The Kia Forum is situated in Inglewood, California, a city within the southwestern part of Los Angeles County. It is located approximately three miles east of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and is part of a growing entertainment district. The arena's immediate surroundings are characterized by an urban landscape, featuring commercial establishments, residential areas, and significant infrastructure. Notably, it is positioned directly across from SoFi Stadium and the YouTube Theater, forming a concentrated hub for major events and entertainment. The site benefits from its proximity to major freeways, facilitating access from various parts of the Greater Los Angeles metropolitan area, embedding it firmly within the urban fabric of Southern California.

More facts

  • Imported from Wikidata

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